Proposed Submission: Gravesham Local Plan Core Strategy

5.5.42 The Council will seek improvements to walking and cyclingfacilities and networks in the Borough including through provision innew development as appropriate. These should provide improvedaccess to Gravesend Town Centre and Ebbsfleet and to other servicesand facilities in the Borough. In particular, the Council will seek theprovision of high quality, dedicated pedestrian and cycle links betweenNorthfleet and Ebbsfleet stations and along the River Thames, as part ofthe proposed Thames Estuary Path.5.5.43 Land required for the possible future extension of Crossrail issafeguarded on the Policies Map and proposals that would prejudicethis would be refused.5.5.44 The Council will support proposals which improve the efficiencyof freight transport and provide opportunities for alternatives to roadtransport where possible. The Council will safeguard wharves, as shownon the Policies Map, except where this would be detrimental toachieving the key regeneration objectives of the key sites on theriverside.5.5.45 The Council will support proposals which facilitate the use of theRiver Thames for passenger transport and enable cruise liners to visitthe Borough.5.6 Green Infrastructure, Sport and Recreation5.6.1 Green infrastructure is defined by the National Planning PolicyFramework as a network of multi-functional green space, urban and rural,which is capable of delivering a wide range of environmental and quality of lifebenefits for local communities. Green infrastructure, sport and recreationfacilities enrich the quality of life for residents and visitors in the Borough.They have a vital role to play in encouraging and enabling active and healthylifestyles. Green infrastructure is also important for protecting and increasingbiodiversity, protecting the landscape and providing improved access forleisure and sustainable travel purposes.5.6.2 The NPPF seeks to:153